These Easy 3 Ingredient Zucchini Brownies are a delightful twist on classic treats! With just zucchini, cocoa powder, and sweetener, they’re rich and fudgy without the fuss.
Who knew healthy could taste this good? I often munch on these brownies for dessert and feel like I’ve pulled a fast one on my sweet tooth! 🍫
Making these is a breeze! Just mix, pour, and bake. Plus, they make a great snack when you want something sweet but still want to be a little healthy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is your secret weapon! Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid soggy brownies. If you don’t have zucchini, you could try shredded carrots, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds rich chocolate flavor. If you want a sweeter brownie, you could use a mix of cocoa powder and a chocolate drink mix. Just keep in mind that it may change the overall texture.
Sweeter: Sweetened condensed milk is great for richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use maple syrup or honey. Just remember, the liquid sweeteners will need to be adjusted in quantity, so taste and tweak as you mix!
How Do I Get the Brownies Just Right?
Getting the brownies baked perfectly is key! Here’s how to make sure they turn out fudgy and delicious:
- Ensure your oven is preheated; this helps the brownies rise and sets the structure.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick. You want a few moist crumbs, not clean, to maintain that fudgy texture.
- Let them cool completely before cutting. This will help them firm up and hold their shape when you slice them.
These simple tips can make a big difference, leading to scrumptious zucchini brownies that everyone will love!
Easy 3 Ingredient Zucchini Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk or a sweetener of your choice (such as maple syrup or honey, adjust amount to taste if using liquid sweetener)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, set aside about 40 minutes to whip up these delicious brownies. They are perfect for a quick dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take an 8×8-inch baking pan and either line it with parchment paper or grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will help the brownies release easily after baking.
2. Mix the Zucchini and Cocoa:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded zucchini and cocoa powder. Stir them together until they are well mixed and there are no dry patches of cocoa powder left. This step makes sure that the cocoa flavor is evenly distributed throughout your brownies.
3. Combine with the Sweetener:
Now, add the sweetened condensed milk (or the sweetener you chose) to the zucchini and cocoa mixture. Mix everything together well until you have a thick, smooth batter. It’s okay if the batter seems thick; that’s what makes the brownies chewy!
4. Get It Into the Pan:
Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it corners well so your brownies bake uniformly.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end! You’ll know they are done when you insert a toothpick in the center and it comes out with a few moist crumbs—this means your brownies are fudgy and delicious!
6. Cool and Cut:
Once they are baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This cooling time is crucial—it helps firm them up so they slice nicely without falling apart.
7. Enjoy!
Now that your brownies are cooled and cut, it’s time to serve them! Enjoy these fantastic chocolatey treats. They are perfect as a snack or dessert. You can also add some nuts or chocolate chips for an extra touch before baking!
Happy baking!
FAQ for Easy 3 Ingredient Zucchini Brownies
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the excess moisture from the frozen zucchini before using it. This helps prevent soggy brownies.
What Can I Substitute for Sweetened Condensed Milk?
If you prefer a healthier option, feel free to use maple syrup, honey, or an alternative sweetener. If using liquid sweeteners, remember to adjust the quantity and taste the batter as you mix!
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or you can refrigerate them for a bit longer. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature for the best texture before enjoying!
Can I Add Ingredients to Customize My Brownies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for some extra flavor. Just keep in mind that adding too many ingredients can affect the baking time slightly, so check for doneness as needed.